By Nelson Musungu, Bungoma
The 2027 Bungoma gubernatorial race took center stage during a funeral service in Kabuchai Constituency when Kimilili MP Didmus Barasa exchanged heated words with Bungoma County Assembly Majority Leader Joseph Nyongesa.
The two clashed at the funeral of the late James Barasa Mukhongo, the immediate former Chwele/Kabuchai Ward MCA and Kabuchai Ford Kenya chairperson, who succumbed to cancer. Despite the solemn occasion in Pongola Village, politics overshadowed the mourning, with the county’s top seat dominating discussions.
“I do not believe in Didmus’ leadership. Tim is the best bet for Bungoma governor in 2027, and residents should unite behind him,” Nyongesa said, accusing Barasa of engaging in divisive politics and frequently attacking Wanyonyi in rallies,” ~ Nyongesa – Tuuti/Marakaru mca
Nyongesa, also the Tuuti/Marakaru Ward MCA and a fierce critic of Barasa, used the platform to rally support for Westlands MP Tim Wanyonyi, who has declared interest in the governorship.
He dismissed Barasa’s leadership style and praised Wanyonyi’s record in Westlands, promising Bungoma residents “inclusive and participatory governance” if elected.
“I do not believe in Didmus’ leadership. Tim is the best bet for Bungoma governor in 2027, and residents should unite behind him,” Nyongesa said, accusing Barasa of engaging in divisive politics and frequently attacking Wanyonyi in rallies.
The County Assembly’s Deputy Speaker Stephen Wamalwa backed Nyongesa’s endorsement, warning residents against “gambling with the leadership of the county’s top seat.”
Barasa, who has announced his bid for governor on a Ford Kenya ticket, hit back, telling the Assembly leadership to stay out of his campaign strategy. “Since you are not my chief campaigners, don’t lecture me on how to run my campaign. Focus on the person you support,” he said, accusing Nyongesa of shifting political loyalties for personal gain.
He further claimed that Nyongesa had previously supported Allan Malilo before moving to Wanyonyi’s camp.
The entry of Wanyonyi into Bungoma politics has shaken local alignments, with several MCAs switching allegiance from Barasa to the Westlands MP. Nyongesa’s public position, given his role as Majority Leader and key Ford Kenya figure, is seen as a sign of the party’s shifting stance ahead of 2027.
